I run 30km a week in the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 - if you only ever buy one pair of reliable and comfortable running shoes, it should be these now they're on sale

There's nothing worse than buying a pair of running shoes that feel great for the first few wears, then lose their bounce - or, worst of all, start to rub your feet. That's why I've been reaching for the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 when I've got easy miles to do, and comfort is key.

The plush sole and flexible, textile upper make for comfortable wear for hours at a time. I've worn these shoes for everything from a 5km to a half-marathon, bouncing around along the pavement for over two hours without an issue.

Released in January, I've barely had them off my feet since then. They might not be your go-to for speedier runs, race day, or as a pair of trail running shoes, but if you've only got the budget for one pair, then I reckon you'd be just fine in these - especially as they are now on sale.

Asics Gel Nimbus 28 review

Specifications

• Size range: 
• Weight: 242g per shoe
• Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
• Waterproof version available: No

What are the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 like to run in?

I'm not very familiar with the long history of the Nimbus lineup, but I have tried the Gel Nimbus 27 - and these feel noticeably softer and lighter, so those are two improvements. Overall, they have a very cushioned feel, and comfort has clearly been the priority in these shoes.

It shouldn't be underestimated, either. Even compared to the Asics Superblast 3, the springier older sibling in the line-up, these have more cushioning and feel more stable underfoot, making them a smooth, reliable ride - just what you want in an all-rounder running shoe, especially if you're not too concerned about breaking speed records.

However, they are still plush and feel noticeably lightweight, and have a slight rocker in the sole, which is designed to push you forward through every step. I can feel this on my runs, so while I tend to take it at a slower pace in these shoes, I have stepped it up to faster paces without any issues, clocking in 10km and a half-marathon personal bests.

The locked-in feel provided by the cushioned ankle girdle and classic interlocking lace system only adds to this comfort and support, as does the thin tongue on the upper, which is breathable and entirely flexible, so it can be stretched right over the foot to avoid rubbing.

The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is a shoe designed for neutral runners or under pronators (where your foot rolls slightly outwards). If anything, I'm an over pronator (my foot rolls inwards), but I've never had any issues in these, so I think they're just about suitable for just about everyone. However, if you're unsure, get a gait analysis test and try them on first.

Who are the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 running shoes made for?

While a more responsive, springier running shoe will be a better choice for speedier runs and race days, one with a stronger rocker and even less weight to it, not everyone has the budget for multiple pairs of shoes. The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 is a running shoe designed for easy, longer runs, with comfort and impact protection on roads and pavements in mind. However, I think they fair up well when you push through to faster paces, so I'd recommend them to anyone - whether you're running as a beginner or have been going for years.

It's rare to find a shoe that I'll give such a rave review to, but over the last six months, they've been a versatile go-to for all my running - and I actually look forward to wearing them. My ankle-breaking speed shoes? Not so much, so they often get left behind.

The Asics Gel Nimbus 28 could also be a good walking shoe - or one for those who like to try Jeffing. I've spotted many women wearing them in central London, walking with speed up escalators and along busy tube platforms, no doubt because they are so comfortable. However, I personally wouldn't walk in them - I'm not used to shoes with additional stack height when walking, so I have dragged the soles on the ground many times, making for a loud sound and unnecessary wear to the soles.

The w&h verdict

I'd recommend the Asics Gel Nimbus 28 running shoes to anyone. Their comfort, stability, breathability, and lightweight feel make them a pleasure to wear for long and/or easy runs, and I've pushed through to faster paces without an issue.

These are the shoes I want to reach for every time I head out the door, which is perhaps why they are so worn after six months. That's hundreds of miles, hundreds of thousands of steps, and many, many workouts.

If you're a fan of the Hoka Clifton 10 or Bondi 9, then I'd say these are a close match in terms of cushioning, but offer a little more energy return for longer runs.

I opted for the pastel pink colourway when I got these shoes in the winter, which made for a pleasant pop of colour in my running wardrobe, but it didn't wear particularly well in wetter and muddier conditions, compared to the darker blue, purple, and black colourways that are also available. Now it's summer, you wouldn't have that same problem.